Escalante Petrified Forest State Park

Star4.35
78 reviews
710 North Reservoir Road, ESCALANTE, Utah, 84726-0350, United States
Summer Destination

Quick Facts

5,900 ft

Price

$29 - $50/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

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Escalante Petrified Forest State Park
$29.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Campsites range from $29/night for no hookups to $50/night for full hookup sites. Day-use fee is $10 per car. Additional fees include $3 per person...
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Standard Site Fee$29.00
Hookup Site Fee$50.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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What Campers Say

4.35

Recommended

Based on 78 reviews

918 Google reviews

Most mentioned

showershiking

Some mention

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"User reviews highlight the park's scenic beauty, well-maintained trails, and the unique experience of seeing petrified wood. Some criticisms include the cleanliness of showers, narrow campsites, and perceived overpricing."

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Campground Map

710 North Reservoir Road, ESCALANTE, Utah, 84726-0350, United States

Escalante Petrified Forest State Park

710 North Reservoir Road, ESCALANTE, Utah, 84726-0350, United States

Driving directionsLocated 1.5 miles west of Escalante off Highway 12.
The campground is easily accessible via Highway 12, a well-maintained and paved road. Seasonal closures or restrictions are not mentioned.
Nearby places
Escalante (1.5 miles, ~5 minutes), Bryce Canyon National Park (~60 miles, ~1.5 hours), Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument (adjacent).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be obtained in Escalante, which is only 1.5 miles from the campground. Firewood is available for purchase at the park.

Best Time to Camp at Escalante Petrified Forest State Park

Experience the dramatic dance of Utah's high desert seasons, where winter nights can dip to a crisp 17°F and summer afternoons climb to a warm but manageable 92°F. The region's signature clear skies and low humidity create perfect conditions for stargazing and outdoor exploration. Savvy travelers time their visits for the goldilocks months of spring and fall, when temperatures hover in that sweet spot between t-shirt weather and light jacket comfort—ideal for both lakeside relaxation and trail adventures.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.0 / 5

Summer is peak season with warm highs (~92°F) and crowds/peak pricing; water activities available.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.5 / 5
Top 14% in UT

Fall is noted as a preferred season—milder weather and excellent hiking conditions.

Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Spring is preferred for camping and hiking with milder temps and active wildflower/plant interest likely.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.5 / 5

Open year-round but cold nights (~17°F) and fewer warm-weather activities make winter less appealing.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: Peak season pricing was noted in July, indicating summer as the busiest period.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: The campground appears to be open year-round based on user reviews. Peak season pricing was noted in July 2023.
  • Current Alerts: Construction was noted near the lake in 2023, causing noise disturbances for campers near the area.

About Escalante Petrified Forest State Park

Nestled beside the shimmering waters of Wide Hollow Reservoir, Escalante Petrified Forest State Park offers an intimate camping experience where ancient history meets modern comfort. This hidden gem serves as your gateway to the magnificent Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, while providing all the amenities today's adventurers appreciate—from hot showers after dusty trail days to clean, well-maintained facilities. Campers find themselves enchanted by the park's tranquil atmosphere and the thrill of discovering rainbow-hued petrified wood scattered across scenic hiking trails, all at prices that won't break the adventure budget.
The campground at Escalante Petrified Forest State Park primarily accommodates RVs and tents. There are also cabins available.
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Stay Limit
Information unavailable about maximum consecutive nights allowed.

Amenities available

Showers
Potable water
Electricity hookups
Flush toilets
Dump station
Fire rings

Activities you can enjoy

Escalante Petrified Forest State Park offers a range of recreational opportunities, including hiking, swimming, fishing, boating, wildlife viewing, and educational programs. The park is particularly known for its trails where visitors can explore petrified wood.
HikingHiking is a highlight of the park, with two main trails: the Petrified Forest Trail, a 1-mile loop, and the Sleeping Rainbows Trail, an optional, steep 0.75-mile loop. User reviews frequently highlight the trails as a 'must-do,' with comments like, 'The sleeping rainbow loop is DEFINITELY worth it!' and 'The petrified forest trail was steep at the beginning but flattens out to a more moderate hike.'
FishingFishing is permitted in the Wide Hollow Reservoir, which is stocked with rainbow trout and bluegill. It is a popular spot for anglers.
SwimmingSwimming opportunities are available in the Wide Hollow Reservoir. However, one review advises wearing water shoes due to sticks and moss along parts of the shoreline.
BikingMountain biking opportunities exist, and one review mentioned a 'newish single track system on the plateau above,' though it is noted as highly technical.
BoatingBoating is allowed on Wide Hollow Reservoir, which includes a boat ramp. Rentals for kayaks and paddleboards are available.
Wildlife viewingThe park offers good opportunities for wildlife viewing, though specific species are not mentioned.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsTrails can be steep and rocky, posing risks of slipping. Little shade on trails may result in heat exhaustion during hot weather. Mosquitoes are noted as a potential nuisance near the reservoir.
Active AlertsConstruction was noted near the lake in 2023, causing noise disturbances for campers near the area.

Weather at Escalante Petrified Forest State Park

Reviews

4.4
78 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Escalante Petrified Forest State Park is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the park's scenic beauty, well-maintained trails, and the unique experience of seeing petrified wood. Some criticisms include the cleanliness of showers, narrow campsites, and perceived overpricing.
Review Summaries
Based on 78 reviews

What Campers Love

Visitors praise the 'pristine campground,' 'hot showers,' and 'beautiful facilities.' The hiking trails, particularly the Sleeping Rainbows Trail, received consistent acclaim for their uniqueness and...
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Based on 78 reviews

Common Concerns

Issues raised include the small size of campsites, lack of privacy, and the $29 camping fee deemed high for no hookups. The cleanliness of showers was also occasionally criticized.
Based on 78 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Users recommend bringing water and sunscreen for hikes, as there is limited shade. Many advise not to miss the Sleeping Rainbows Trail. Water shoes are suggested for swimming in the reservoir.
Based on 78 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The park is described as hot and dry in summer, with limited shade on trails. Spring and fall appear to be the preferred seasons for camping and hiking.
Based on 78 reviews

Camper Quotes

Quotes include: 'The petrified forest trail is steep at first but amazing once you get to the loop,' 'Showers are on 8-minute timers but hot and clean,' and 'The Junior Ranger program was a hit with...
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Based on 78 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 9 is highlighted for its quiet and scenic location against a canyon wall. Sites closer to the lake are noted for noise due to construction activity.
Based on 78 reviews

Accessibility Features

The park is described as accessible, with ADA restrooms and features like the 50-foot petrified tree accessible to all visitors.
Based on 78 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

The park is pet-friendly, with one review noting, 'Dog-friendly trails, though it’s basically one hiking trail with a .75-mile offshoot.'
Based on 78 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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